Creedence Clearwater Revival – Fortunate Son – 1969

About The Song

Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) was an American rock band formed in 1967, known for their rootsy and swamp rock sound. “Fortunate Son” is one of their iconic songs, released in 1969, during a period of social and political upheaval in the United States.

Five facts about “Fortunate Son” by Creedence Clearwater Revival (1969):

1. Anti-War Protest Anthem: “Fortunate Son” is a protest song that strongly criticizes the social and economic privileges enjoyed by the wealthy elite during the Vietnam War. It became an anthem for the anti-war movement, resonating with those who opposed the conflict.
2. John Fogerty’s Social Commentary: The song’s lyrics were written by John Fogerty, the lead singer and primary songwriter for CCR. Fogerty’s background and experiences influenced the song’s scathing critique of the draft and the disparities in how the war affected different social classes.
3. Upbeat Sound Contrasting Serious Lyrics: Despite its upbeat and catchy sound, “Fortunate Son” carries a serious and critical message. The contrast between the lively music and the lyrics serves to underscore the irony and hypocrisy in the song’s themes.
4. Chart Performance: While “Fortunate Son” did not top the charts in the United States, it became one of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most enduring and culturally impactful songs. It has since been recognized as one of the greatest protest songs in rock history.
5. Popularity in Film and Media: The song has been widely used in films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its place in popular culture. Its rebellious spirit and anti-establishment message continue to resonate, making it a timeless piece of rock music with social and political significance.

Video

Lyrics

Some folks are born made to wave the flag
Hoo, they’re red, white and blue
And when the band plays “Hail to the chief”
Ooh, they point the cannon at you, Lord

It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no senator’s son, son
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no furtunate one, no

Some folks are born silver spoon in hand
Lord, don’t they help themselves, Lord?
But when the taxman come to the door
Lord, the house lookin’ like a rummage sale, yeah

It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no millionaire’s son, no, no
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no fortunate one, no

Yeah-yeah, some folks inherit star-spangled eyes
Hoo, they send you down to war, Lord
And when you ask ’em, “How much should we give?”
Hoo, they only answer, “More, more, more, more”

It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no military son, son, Lord
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no fortunate one, one

It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no fortunate one, no, no, no
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no fortunate son, no, no, no
It ain’t me, it ain’t me…